Dobbs v. Jackson: Impact on Cancer Patients, Survivors, and Their Families
AUSTIN, Texas – June 27, 2022 – Livestrong released the following statement regarding the impact of the June 24th ruling of Dobbs v. Jackson for those impacted by cancer.
We stand with cancer patients and their families.
The U.S. Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson will impact those affected by cancer.
The Livestrong Foundation continues to support and fight for those living with cancer today. Reproductive healthcare is an essential component of person-centered cancer care. We stand with all cancer patients, including those who are interested in preserving their fertility, trying to conceive, or currently pregnant, regardless of cancer stage, race, color, creed, gender, or sexual orientation.
We stand with cancer patients interested in preserving their fertility and those currently trying to conceive.
About 80,000 young adults aged 20 to 39 are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States and we believe each and every one of them have the right to preserve their fertility and plan for future families.
Livestrong has helped over 16,000 cancer patients preserve their fertility. We remain dedicated to providing reproductive information, resources, and discounted fertility services to survivors whose cancer and its treatment present risks to their fertility.
We ask states to consider the impact of this ruling on those facing a cancer diagnosis and will continue to advocate for expanded insurance coverage for fertility preservation.
We stand with pregnant patients and their providers.
Pregnancy can complicate cancer treatment and delays in cancer treatment can and do negatively impact the life of the mother.
Healthcare is complex and personal. Decisions regarding health are best discussed between the patient and healthcare provider. We support each patient’s ability to work with their medical teams and make the decisions which are right for them.
We encourage states to protect the patient-provider relationship and consider the impact of future legislation on pregnant cancer patients and their families at large.
We stand with underserved communities.
The impact of this ruling will be felt across the United States, particularly by underserved rural areas or marginalized populations that are disproportionately affected by barriers to cancer care and treatment.
At Livestrong, we believe that all people affected by cancer deserve the same quality of programming, regardless of race, color, creed, gender, or sexual orientation. We are committed to being active participants in overcoming obstacles to continue offering programs that work for anyone and everyone.
We call for states to direct resources to help overcome gaps in care for all people affected by cancer.
We’re one in the fight.
We’re your advocate before policymakers. Your champion within the healthcare system. And we know the fight never ends.
Know this: we will continue to fight for anyone affected by cancer to ensure that they don’t just survive, they Livestrong.
About Livestrong:
For 25 years, Livestrong has served and supported more than 12.2 million people affected by cancer and mobilized more than 91+ million people in support of cancer initiatives. As a result of its steadfast efforts, Livestrong has excelled in identifying the areas where patients and survivors lack support, then invested in advocacy, programs and services that address their needs. Livestrong has invested more than $540 million in 603 cancer programs and services. For more information, visit Livestrong.org.
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